The use of photobiomodulation therapy for the management of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: a pilot trial

Abstract

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common side effect of chemotherapeutic agents used to treat breast cancer (BC). This complication involves paresthesia, numbness and burning pain in the distal limbs. Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) is based on the application of (near)-infrared light on tissue to stimulate cell repair processes. Previous research has demonstrated that it can promote functional recovery of peripheral nerves. We hypothesize that PBMT is an effective treatment strategy to prevent sensory symptoms associated with CIPN leading to an improved patient's quality of life.

A prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled study with 7 BC patients was performed at the Jessa Hospital, Belgium. Patients were randomized to receive PBM or placebo treatments twice-weekly starting at first until the last week of their chemotherapy. The modified Total Neuropathy Score (mTNS) and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy/ Gynaecologic Oncology Group Taxane scale (FACT/GOG-Taxane) was used to evaluate the severity of CIPN and the patients' quality of life respectively.

Currently we cannot state that PBMT prevents the emergence of CIPN. This can be explained by the small sample size. Nonetheless, based on patients' experience, there seem to be a tendency in the prevention of CIPN with PBMT. In order verify this, a follow-up study is needed to increase the sample size.